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Golfers Marvin Kibirige and Ronald Rugumayo have set their sights on a new horizon. With determination in their hearts and clubs in their hands, they prepare to make their debut in the Zimbabwe Open, to be held at the Royal Harare Golf Club from May 4-7.
The prize fund for the tournament is a staggering sh406m, and for Kibirige and Rugumayo, it represents a chance to secure their first paychecks and take their budding professional careers to the next level.
For Rugumayo, this event is a second chance at professional success, after he was granted granted affiliation status despite missing out on the cut during the recent Q-school in South Africa, which allows him to compete in more Sunshine Tour events, starting with the Zimbabwe tournament.
Meanwhile, Kibirige is hoping to take the same route as Rugumayo, competing in multiple events and building his professional reputation.
“In Uganda, we have few tournaments but in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Kenya in three months they have like 7 to 8 tournaments so to make it on another level I have to base in South Africa and compete in more events,” Kibirige told the New Vision.
Despite the travel costs, Kibirige expressed his gratitude to friends and members of the Namulonge Golf Club who helped fund his trip.
"I'm very grateful to the people behind my back and all Namulonge members who supported me, words fall short when I try to express my sincerest gratitude for their support; their kindness is permitting me to fulfill my purpose and dreams; I appreciate," Kibirige said.
Both golfers understand the importance of these events and the opportunities they present. Rugumayo is determined to continue fighting after missing the cut in the Magical Kenya Open and failing to secure a Sunshine Tour card through the first leg of the Qualifying School in South Africa.
"I'm looking forward to competing in the Zimbabwe Open and the Zanaco Masters in Zambia," Rugumayo said. "These events with very good prize money offer me a chance to make amends and secure my place in the golfing world."
With determination and a passion for the game, these two young golfers from Uganda are ready to take on the world and make their mark.
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